_So you find yourself with a beautiful arrangement of flowers from your Valentine. That's great news! It is scientifically prove that the presence of flowers increase feel good emotions, overall life satisfaction and affects social behavior in a positive manor. Flowers are the easiest way to improve our emotional health.

The average life of a fresh floral arrangement is usually about 4-7 days. Of course this will vary depending on where your flowers came from and how you care for them. Here are some tips to help keep your flowers looking as beautiful for as long as possible.

Keep the flowers hydrated. Add water with flower food to the vase or foam that hold your flowers. If you don't have any flower food your local florist can provide it for you. If the flowers are in a vase, completely change the water every 2-3 days and re-cut the stems.

When re-cutting stems use a sharp knife (this will reduce the crushing effect on the stem, making it easier for the flower to drink) or very sharp clippers and remove 1-2 inches from the bottoms, remove any foliage that will fall below your water line and place the flowers back into a clean vase with fresh water and flower food immediately.

Keep the flowers cool. Flowers kept cool last longer. Place them out of the sun and away from vents or appliances that give off heat. Heat causes flowers to dehydrate. Ideal home temperature should be about 65-70 degrees F.

Don't store your flowers in your home refrigerator. I know what your thinking, why not? My mom use to do it. Well foods in you refrigerator give off a gas called Ethelyn. Ethelyn will actually cause your flowers to die faster. Some flowers are more sensitive than others. Regardless, leave the flowers out where they can be enjoyed.

If you have any other flower care questions we are happy to answer them, just leave your comments below.